Once a year, leading medical experts in aesthetics worldwide convene to examine beauty trends, delve into the medico-scientific contributions that medical aesthetics can offer patients, and articulate their vision for elevating the quality of life. The Merz Aesthetics Expert Summit (MEXS) stands as an annual gathering organized by Merz Aesthetics. This year, the focal point was "Regenerative Aesthetic." In response to the global shift in aesthetic preferences towards "natural beauty," Merz anticipates that regenerative aesthetics will emerge as the industry's new cornerstone, empowering individuals to optimize their natural beauty by enhancing their skin's inherent ability to regenerate. In a forthcoming series of three articles, we will explore the value and prospects of regenerative aesthetics through insights shared by experts we encountered at MEXS 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, held in November. -- Ed.

Bob Rhatigan, CEO of Merz Aesthetics, said regenerative aesthetics will be a significant opportunity for the medical aesthetics industry. He said this approach aligns seamlessly with Merz Aesthetics' core values, emphasizing the empowerment of individuals to recognize the inherent value of their beauty, embrace self-love, and lead confident lives, all without succumbing to conventional beauty norms.

Given that the Korean market stands out as not only the world's fastest-growing aesthetic market but also a pioneering and innovative force in the realm of medical aesthetics, the company is committed to persistently engaging in research and communication with Korean healthcare professionals, he emphasized. 

Question: Merz organizes MEXS annually. What are your expectations?

Answer: MEXS, a flagship event organized by Merz Aesthetics every year since 2011, holds significant importance for the entire medical aesthetics industry. This event serves as a conduit for Merz Aesthetics to unveil new treatments and procedures to a global audience of medical professionals, offering valuable insights into the latest industry trends.

What distinguishes MEXS from other congresses is its unique combination of training sessions and in-depth insights into clinical and aesthetic trends. The event facilitates a vibrant exchange among practitioners worldwide. Notably, MEXS stands out as a "science-based" academic event, emphasizing that much of the shared information is grounded in scientific evidence. This approach aims to empower practitioners with knowledge that can translate into improved patient outcomes in real-world scenarios. In the realm of medical aesthetics, patient satisfaction holds immense value, influencing not only the company's standing but also playing a pivotal role in shaping the broader aesthetics market and contributing to the industry's ongoing development.

Q: The theme for this year's MEXS is "Transforming Aesthetic." How do you perceive the evolving landscape of the aesthetic sector?

A: In recent years, there has been a notable shift in patient demographics, and I anticipate this trend will continue to gain momentum. This transformation can be attributed to two key factors. 

Firstly, there is a discernible decrease in the age of medical aesthetics patients, with the 20s-30s generation entering the sector at an accelerated rate. There is a growing emphasis on "prejuvenation,” reflecting a proactive and preventative approach to aging among this younger demographic.

"Prejuvenation" refers to treatments aimed at enhancing the overall condition of the skin by stimulating the activity of the body's biological systems. Unlike addressing specific skin issues like wrinkles and dullness, these treatments focus on promoting skin health through the activation of collagen, elastin, and fibroblasts—the fundamental building blocks of skin tissue.

Secondly, there is a growing positive perception of aesthetics in the context of self-care. Individuals are now turning to social media to gather information about aesthetics and explore real-life experiences instead of relying solely on traditional medical consultation rooms. This shift indicates the emergence of a culture that naturally embraces aesthetic treatments with a sense of acceptance.

Q: It seems evident that the awareness and influence of Merz Aesthetics in Korea have significantly grown. What key accomplishment best characterizes the current status of Merz Aesthetics?

A: I would emphasize “product innovation.” While we already boast a top-notch product portfolio featuring Ulthera, Xeomin, Belotero, and Radiance, we persistently focus on research and development. Consequently, our robust pipeline comprises 30 ongoing projects, with an anticipation that 20 of them will yield significant outcomes and secure approvals in new markets within the next five years.

Another noteworthy accomplishment is high-quality training for physicians. Across diverse platforms, we have consistently delivered a range of training programs for physicians involved in medical aesthetics. Through the dissemination of valuable information encompassing new aesthetics trends, market insights, and country-specific trends, we empower physicians to take the lead in the aesthetics market. As a result, we have fostered friendly partnerships with skilled global experts.

Q: What significance does the Korean market hold for Merz Aesthetics?

A: Korea is a very important market. Not only is it the fastest-growing aesthetic market globally, but it also serves as a trendsetter in medical aesthetics worldwide. Many innovative products and applications, originating in Korea, have gone on to influence global practices. The Korean market is characterized by its high level of innovation, with doctors fearlessly combining procedures and adopting new treatments to achieve optimal results, showcasing world-class skills. With its abundant scale, innovation, and expertise, the enduring interest and support for Korea within Merz Aesthetics will continue. 

Q: What are the current aesthetic trends that Merz Aesthetics is observing?

A: Certainly, regenerative aesthetics is at the forefront. It is experiencing rapid growth in Asia, particularly in Korea. Regenerative aesthetics involves treatments that promote the natural regeneration of collagen, elastin, and other essential skin components that diminish with age. While numerous products worldwide address this, there is a belief that those enhancing the body's natural production process through immunological principles can yield exceptional results in regenerative aesthetics. At MEXS 2023, regenerative aesthetics took center stage in several educational sessions.

Q: As the CEO of Merz Aesthetics, what message would you like to convey to healthcare providers in Korea?

A: Once again, Merz Aesthetics’ focus is entirely on medical aesthetics.We are a company that cares deeply about medical aesthetics, and our reason for being is to help healthcare providers provide the best care and service to their patients through the superior Merz Aesthetics product portfolio. We are grateful to the Korean medical community for their world-class medical care and for the constant inspiration they provide us, and we look forward to a strong partnership in the future.